Sensory systems, perception, and learning | Communication Behavior: Visual Signals

Teleost fishes exhibit a striking diversity of color, texture, form, and motion, much of which has evolved in the context of communication. While some fish generate their own bioluminescent signals, most use a combination of skin pigments, textures, postures, and motor patterns to reflect filtered sunlight. The diversity of signals arises from interplay between constraints on development and expression, and selection to maximize conspicuousness to intended receivers, such as rivals or potential mates, while minimizing detection by eavesdroppers, such as predators. © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.